When I think of Daniel and his three friends, I am reminded of the guards that serve at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Washington, D.C. Rigid requirements are, and were, demanded of both. The majority of those that were picked, failed the test. In the case of the Soldiers at Arlington Cemetery, they have to be between 5’ 10” and 6’ 4” tall, have a 32” waist, be intelligent, well-educated, and cannot drink alcohol on or off duty for the rest of their lives.

Nebuchadnezzar’s requirements to work in the King’s Court were equally rigid. He insisted on choosing handsome, well-built men who were brilliant, with an impeccable education. Then they were fully versed in the Babylonian culture. Daniel and his friends passed every one of the King’s requirements.

The one “characteristic” that set them apart from the rest was their deep and abiding faith in their God. Here in the second chapter of Daniel, we see Daniel’s faith tested. Daniel acknowledged that the task of revealing the King’s dream, as well as interpreting it, would only be possible through the help of his God. There was no doubt that he could do it with God’s help. His only request was that the King not kill his “wise men.”

How strong will our faith be when the day of reckoning comes?

Beginning 2016 with Prayer

Everywhere I walk, bring peace.

The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace - I choose to live in peace for the gospel at any and every moment. Show me where You are working and lead me to it. Do not let me become slack in my walk.